There are a number of factors that contribute to productive relationships and assist in the development of a mutual understanding amongst people. There is none, however, that is more important than Active Listening. This is an essential skill in life, but I am amazed at the number of people who have never learned it. Many people learned it once a long time ago, but as most skillsâ€¦ when not practiced, they have lost their edge. It is a skill that can enhance the quality of relationships, friendships, marriages, parent/child interactions, business dealings and international relations on almost every level. Yet, it is sometimes referred to as a “lost art.”